Cruise_Lemming

All that being said, my apologies to the OP who inquired about shopping after checking in. Despite that it defies the laws of common sense, it appears that not only is it possible, but thanks to the computer age, is frequently done too!

I stand corrected!

I don't know the answer to this person's question either. But, imagine the mayhem if just a fraction of the people who check in, wanted to leave the ship to go shopping. In my opinion, "checking in" should be just that! I just cannot imagine the procedures, strain on cruise line employees, and the confusion wondering, who's checked in, and who's ashore shopping. I would have to imagine that the ships rules would state, unless it's a medical or some other emergency, once checked in, it's all-aboard!

Lots of great advice here! I didn't expect this thread to get so much attention.

I agree, the Water Taxi is probably the way to go. I haven't actually lived in Ft. Lauderdale since 1974, so the Water Taxi is unfamiliar to me. Thanks to "bill blasters" for posting that awesome link showing the Water Taxi stops.

Here's the Water Taxi website,.....doesn't that look like fun?

Hey guys, about Carol's shopping request,...what about the Coral Ridge Mall? I know it's small, but there used to be a couple good anchor stores in there. It was my teenage hangout back in the early 70's. Does it even still exist? Since the Water Taxi has a stop at Oakland Park Blvd., it's just a healthy walk away, or a 3 minute taxi drive.

Carol,

I would say that you're 5 or 6 miles away from the Galleria Mall, from where you are staying. I haven't lived in Ft. Lauderdale for quite some time, but I would guess that maybe $12 to $15 each way would be a possible cab fare.

17th Street Causeway is down on the south side of town, near Port Everglades and the airport. The Galleria Mall is located on Sunrise Blvd, near the Intercoastal Waterway, farther north. Both areas are considered good from a tourist perspective. In fact, if you take a cab, I recommend that you have the driver go up A1A, which is the main beach throughfare. This would take you over the 17th St. Causeway bridge, overlooking Port Everglades, past the Bahia Mar Marina, and alongside the ocean up to Sunrise Blvd. Once at Sunrise Blvd., you'll cross another Intercoastal Waterway bridge, and the Galleria Mall will be just a couple more blocks on your left.

Again, both of these areas in Ft. Lauderdale are quite busy, so I cannot imagine that you would have trouble hailing a taxi for the return trip.

Best Wishes!